Moscow has dismissed as “ludicrous” claims suggesting potential Russian involvement in recent alleged arson attacks targeting properties linked to UK Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer. The denial comes amid reports that UK security officials are investigating a possible link to the Kremlin following three incidents earlier this month.
The core events involve fires at two properties previously or currently linked to Starmer and a car he formerly owned. While three men have been charged in connection with the incidents, reports emerged in UK media suggesting MI5 is looking into whether the attacks were orchestrated by Russia.
Kremlin Responds to Allegations
Kremlin spokesman Dmitry Peskov addressed the reports on Monday, stating, “London tends to suspect Russia of [involvement in] all the bad things happening in Great Britain.”
He added, “As a rule, all these suspicions are groundless and not backed up with any evidence.”
This statement directly refutes the notion that Moscow played any role in the alleged arson attacks.
UK Investigation and Arrests
British media outlets, citing unnamed Whitehall officials, reported that MI5 is exploring the possibility that the attacks were directed by the Kremlin.
Meanwhile, police have made arrests and brought charges in the case. Petro Pochynok, 34, a Ukrainian national from north London, was charged by the Metropolitan Police last week with conspiracy to commit arson with intent to endanger life.
Two other men have also been charged in connection with the fires. Roman Lavrynovych, 21, has been charged with arson with intent to endanger life, and Stanislav Carpiuc, 26, has been charged with conspiracy to commit arson with intent to endanger life.
All three men, including the third man charged recently, have appeared in court for initial hearings and remain in custody. Their next scheduled court appearance is at the Old Bailey in London on June 6.
Police officers stand outside a property following alleged arson attacks linked to UK Prime Minister Keir Starmer
Timeline of Incidents
The alleged attacks occurred over a few days in early May:
- May 8: A car previously owned by Sir Keir Starmer and sold to a neighbour caught fire on a street in Kentish Town, London, where Starmer used to live before moving to Downing Street.
- May 11: Firefighters responded to a small fire at the front door of a house in Islington, London, where Starmer lived in the 1990s. The property has since been converted into flats.
- May 12: Emergency services were called to a fire at the Prime Minister’s private home on the same street in Kentish Town where the car fire occurred.
Sir Keir Starmer previously commented on the incidents, describing them as “an attack on all of us, on democracy and the values that we stand for.”
Both Downing Street and the Metropolitan Police have declined to comment specifically on the media reports suggesting a potential Russian link is under investigation.
Next Steps
The police investigation into the alleged arson attacks continues, with the three charged individuals due to appear in court again in June. The UK security services are reportedly also conducting their own assessment regarding potential foreign links. Russia maintains its position, denying any involvement.
For more details on the charges brought in this case, read about the Third man charged over fires at homes linked to PM. Explore related coverage on Keir Starmer and Russia for broader context.
